Fans on social media were literally freaking out. It didn't help that the fake Twitter account had the same profile and cover pictures of the official Aretha Franklin one, along with the description and link to her latest album:

However, there are several red flags which should immediately raise suspicion:

The account was created in November 2017

It has only 35 followers

It's not verified by Twitter's blue badge (unlike the official one)

Aretha Franklin's name is mispelled

Phrasing of the tweet is clumsy

All caps is not customary

That should be enough in order to debunk the tweet, but TV host Shaun Robinson tweeted a personal message from Franklin to put all the rumours to rest:

Good Morning, Everyone. I just spoke to one of Ms. Franklin’s family friends in my hometown Detroit. They spoke to Aretha moments ago and asked me to tell you please don’t believe this news that was trending. Have a good day. https://t.co/3LTyD4UlEH

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